The reality of intikas, or relapse in faith, is not limited to those who were once adherent to the faith and then chose to lead another way of life altogether, but it also applies to those who turned their backs on the principles they once stood for and then decided to go back on those very principles in the name of the religion itself!
There were those in the community who once stood for the unity of the Ummah and even called for the establishment of an Islamic state but then turned back on such goals as they were “unIslamic.”
Others declared that their adherence to the religion was based on “medieval and literalist” understandings which ignored the “spirit” of the text and so began to embark upon projects to undermine and outcast orthodoxy in the name of religion! This intellectual or ideological form of intikas is more dangerous in many cases since such individuals still speak in the name of Islam, whereas others would simply live their new way of life without openly speaking about their faith.

Types of Relapses:
1. Due to following one’s desires (shahwat). Man is naturally inclined toward fulfilling his base desires and is surrounded by the lures and temptations of the worldly life. These desires are not inherently blameworthy, in fact, they can be a source of reward if they are channeled correctly according to the dictates of Islamic law. However, if they are not governed by Islamic law, they can easily lead a person astray. Allah Almighty says: (We said), “O David, indeed We have made you a successor upon the earth, so judge between the people in truth and do not follow (your own) desire, as it will lead you astray from the way of Allah.” Indeed, those who go astray from the way of Allah will have a severe punishment for having forgotten the Day of Account.” (Qur’an, 38:26)
2. Due to specious arguments, which are superficially plausible. This particular type of relapse is in many ways more dangerous since it does not appear ‘sinful’ from the onset unlike following one’s desires. This therefore makes it easier for a person to entertain such arguments. In this article, relapsing due to this particular cause will be primarily focused on.

Examples of specific causes:
Belittling and turning away from the way of the believers: “And whoever opposes the Messenger after guidance has become clear to him and follows other than the way of the believers, We will give him what he has taken and drive him into Hell, and evil it is as a destination.” (Qur’an, 4:115)
The Prophet (peace be upon him) also said on many occasions: “Adhere to the Jamaah (i.e. the way of the companions and those who followed their way).” (Al-Tirmidhi)
Based on the above it is very important that we consciously strive to be a part of the jamaah and not delve into strange and obscure views that oppose the views of the overwhelming majority of the early generations.
It is a common trend among people who end up issuing strange opinions that they either reject the authority of consensus or that they cast a lot of doubt upon it, which then instills within them the audacity and boldness to challenge views that have been adopted by scholars for many centuries. As for the saying of Ibn Masud: “The jamaah is that which agrees with the truth even if you are alone in that” then this was explained by Nuaim bin Hammad, the teacher of Imam Al-Bukhari: “If the jamaah becomes corrupt then it is upon you to adhere to what the jamaah was initially upon before it became corrupted, even if you are by yourself. In such a situation you will be the jamaah.” (Ighathatul-Lahfan, Ibn Al-Qayyim)

A weak relationship with Allah Almighty
Without a shadow of a doubt, being steadfast upon worshipping Allah Almighty is key to remaining upon the truth. One’s steadfastness is constantly challenged by luring temptations which are usually worldly in nature and it is for this reason that there is great emphasis in the Qur’an that we should not be deceived by the worldly life. It is interesting to note that chapter 63 of the Qur’an (Surah Al-Munafiqun), which is dedicated to expounding the traits of the hypocrites and their attitudes, ends by exhorting the believers not to be distracted by their wealth and children: “O you who have believed, let not your wealth and your children divert you from remembrance of Allah. And whoever does that; then those are the losers. And spend (in the way of Allah) from what We have provided you before death approaches one of you and he says, “My Lord, if only You would delay me for a brief term so I would give charity and be among the righteous.” But never will Allah delay a soul when its time has come. And Allah is acquainted with what you do.” (Qur’an, 63:9-11)
This exhortation comes at a fitting time to remind the believers that when we lose our connection with the Afterlife and Allah Almighty, we are prone to deviation from the straight path.

Self-conceit and pride
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “There are three things that lead to destruction: Niggard-liness which is obeyed, desires which are followed and being charmed with one’s own opinion.” (Al-Baihaqi)
Ibrahim Al-Khawwas (d.284h) said: “No heresy, disbelief, innovation or insolent boldness (jurah) toward the religion ever occurred except due to speculative theology (kalam), argumentation and self-conceit…” (Ahadith fi dham Al-Kalam, Abul-Faḍl Al-Muqri)
When a person becomes disgruntled with their own personal state, or the state of their community, it can easily push a person to blame the very beliefs that he holds onto rather than his own shortcomings. If the person is then engulfed by pride it will be difficult for anyone to correct or rectify his affairs since he cannot stand being corrected, but he instead only sees correctness in his own stances and views and takes pride in that.
We live in a time where many of us are questioning things we took for granted many years ago, whether it be related to the political aspects of our faith or spiritual. During such times it is very important that we do not forget the following:
1. There will be an increase in pressure for us to conform with many trends, both from within and outside of the community. It is important that we do not get swayed by the tide;
2. Hold tightly to the understanding of the early generation of Muslims. Also, develop a strong attachment to reading classical literature, in particular books of tafseer and commentaries of Hadith literature;
3. Constantly turn to Allah to keep you steadfast in belief and practice;
4. Realize it will not be possible to appease everyone;
5. If you find yourself to be very inquisitive yet not sure of what stances to take, be wary of your nafs, as it might influence you in a manner you cannot perceive.

Concluded

— islam21c.com